Staying Active Counts

Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that 80% of American adults do not get the recommended amount of exercise each day. This fact will have tragic consequences on the health status of the US population, including increased cases of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. As outlined in a May, 2013 CBS News article, “physical inactivity can lead to obesity and Type 2 diabetes, according to the CDC, while exercise can help control weight, and reduce the risk for developing heart disease and some cancers, while providing mental health benefits.”

What’s a man to do? Exercise of course! The CDC recommends that “…adults get at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, or a combination of both. Adults should also engage in muscle-strengthening activities like lifting weights or doing push-ups at least twice per week (CBS).

Although this may not sound fun,exercising does not have to be equated with drudgery. Think outside the box when striving to incorporate vigorous activity into a daily routine. For instance, many men love sports. Why not become a certified youth referee or umpire? All one needs to do is to research how to apply to be an official, learn the rules, and finally take a test. It may seem overwhelming, but once complete, it’s a great way to stay in shape. Another bonus – officials get paid! Or try another, simpler idea and run around with your kids in the yard. Depending on your children, even just trying to gather them for a trip to the las vegas childrens dentist might count as exercise!

Another fun way for a man to exercise is by doing physical activities with friends. Men have golfed together for years, and if no cart is used, then it can be a great workout. Other ways to exercise with friends include hiking, tennis, flag football, softball, horseshoes, biking, frisbee golf, and more! As most people know, it’s better to exercise with peers, as the time goes by much more quickly.

Finally, exercising with children can be great fun. Kids have an abundance of energy, and tapping into that energy can be invigorating. When a dad takes his kids to the park, for instance, instead of sitting on a bench checking social media, he should tackle the playground equipment. The kids will love it, and he will have a workout that targets all muscle groups.

As always, when beginning any exercise program, it is best to obtain a physician’s approval, but if one is in reasonable health, he should be able to begin slowly, then work his way back up in intensity. Check out this helpful website for assessing current health, risks, and goals. It also has a section where a man can compare his fitness level with that of his peers.

For all people, staying active counts. If one wants to continue to lead an active lifestyle, then keeping in shape through vigorous exercise is a must. Plato, a philosopher who lived in Greece thousands of years ago, even knew the importance of activity. He stated, “Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical physical exercise save it and preserve it.”